Avocado Pesto

  • Recipes
    • Vegetarian
    • Dairy Free
    • Gluten Free
    • Vegan
  • About
  • Shop
  • Contact
  • Work With Me

Socials

Home » Gluten Free Almond Cake with Cranberries {Vegan}

Gluten Free Almond Cake with Cranberries {Vegan}

Last Updated on November 13, 2017 By Vicky 17 Comments

Print Recipe Jump to Recipe
almond cake with cranberries pin

5 ingredient vegan & gluten free almond cake with cranberries and aquafaba in place of egg whites for a light and fluffy fall cake. Refined Sugar Free & High Protein too.

two slices Gluten Free + Vegan Almond Cake with Cranberries on a small dessert plate

Fall dessert time. Almond + cranberries make the perfect fall themed sweet treat. You’re going to love this vegan gluten free almond cake which is not only gluten-free but refined sugar free.

This recipe was inspired from my very own – gluten free almond cake with cranberries which was made initially with regular almond meal, dried cranberries and eggs.

The recipe needed a bit of a makeover  – and so the almond meal was replaced with Bob’s Red Mill super fine almond flour (made from whole blanched almonds). I’ve used this for multiple recipes now (almond cookies too) and love the blanched almond flour. It is so light and fluffy and adds that gently and tender almond flavor to everything. And an added bonus is that almonds are super healthy nuts high in manganese and vitamin E and protein. One slice of this vegan gluten free almond cake has almost 9 grams of protein!

So double yes to almond flour.

Next the dried cranberries needed to be replaced with fresh ones – because they’re much happier. Tart fruit is my favorite – I love love love it.

Bob's Red Mill Almond Flour

And the fresh tart cranberries added whole in the batter slowly start to pop in the oven and release those tart red juices, mixing with the gentle almonds for the greatest pop in flavor.

The maple syrup in place of agave is my new go to sweetener of choice so that was added.

I was planning on adding vanilla extract, until I discovered that what I had on hand was actually some sort of alcohol free vanilla flavoring – ick – how did that get into the pantry? Not ok!

So no vanilla extract here – but guess what, turns out this vegan gluten free almond cake doesn’t even need it. I normally add vanilla extract to all my baking and sweet treats, but you know what, I’m going to start holding off. Let the other flavors shine.

baked whole Vegan and Gluten Free Almond Cake with Cranberries

Now the most exciting part of this vegan gluten free almond cake recipe is of course the egg replacement! A chia or flax egg would not do in this recipe – I needed fluffy vegan egg whites to get this cake to work.

Tell me you’ve heard of aquafaba. No?

Expect to be amazed.

Aquafaba is the leftover chickpea liquid in a can (or after you have cooked your own dried chickpeas). This liquid which for years has been tossed out and discarded without a second thought, actually serves a HUGE purpose.

When beaten for a solid few minutes, this strange yellowish thick gloopy liquid transforms into what looks exactly like whipped egg whites. Vegan egg whites.

Magical or what?

Gluten Free and Vegan Almond Cake with Cranberries cut into 8 slices

This was my first time experimenting with aquafaba, and not going to lie – I was impressed. I mean I wasn’t even sure I believed that it would resemble stiff peak egg whites, but it really truly does.

Be patient with it. It took me about 10 minute of beating for this to happen. Those of you out there with your Stand Mixers – I am eternally jealous, because you turn that machine on and walk happily away.

I am on the other hand need to patiently attach myself to the electric mixer and watch the process by the second.

It might not have taken so long if I had 2 beaters instead of 1, but unfortunately I lost 1 while running through NYC 2 years ago trying to catch a bus. I know, only I could lose a electric mixer beater while running through the city.

Needless to say I always forget to purchase a replacement until I need to start using the electric mixer. So you might get away with stiff peak vegan egg whites in 5-7 minutes instead of my 10.

I am seriously so excited to have tried using aquafaba to make vegan egg whites, that I cannot wait to try making vegan mayo next! But for now back to this cake.

This vegan gluten free almond cake recipe couldn’t be easier. You only need five ingredients – blanched almond flour (I used Bob’s Red Mill), reserved chickpea liquid, fresh cranberries, baking soda and maple syrup (and a dash of salt).

The almond flour, baking soda and salt are combined in one bowl. Then the maple syrup is added and lightly beaten until combined.

The most time consuming part of this vegan gluten free almond cake recipe is to beat the aquafaba until stiff peaks form. Then you fold that in gently into the other bowl and add in the cranberries.

Vegan and gluten Free Almond Cake with Cranberries cut into slices on a serving plate

Baking doesn’t get much simpler than this!

Bake for 35-45 minutes until the cake is lightly browned and a knife or toothpick comes out clean. I prefer my cakes a little bit on the under cooked side but if you like it more firm and cooked through, let it bake for a few more minutes.

Now you know I am not a huge fan of dessert and usually can politely decline, but this vegan gluten free almond cake, this is good. Those tart cranberries just lightly pop and add a refreshing burst of flavor to contrast the gently and fluffy almond taste.

Cut up Vegan + Gluten Free Almond Cake with Cranberries

This is the perfect afternoon tea time dessert. A cup of hot brewed tea is absolutely mandatory with this vegan gluten free almond cake. Next time you’re looking for a vegan fall themed healthier dessert be sure to try this almond cake with cranberries! With 9 grams of protein per serving this also classifies as a high protein dessert!

For a Bob’s Red Mill $1 off oupon be sure to click this link here.

Other festive holiday desserts perfect for this time of year are my vegan pumpkin pie truffles!

One plated slice of Vegan and Gluten Free Almond Cake with Cranberries

4 from 4 votes
almond cake with cranberries
Print
Gluten Free Almond Cake with Cranberries {Vegan}
Prep Time
15 mins
Cook Time
40 mins
Total Time
55 mins
 
5 ingredient vegan and gluten free almond cake with cranberries and aquafaba in place of egg whites for a light and fluffy fall cake. Refined Sugar Free too.
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: gluten free, Healthy, holidays, Vegan
Servings: 8 pieces of cake
Calories: 272 kcal
Author: Vicky
Ingredients
  • 2 1/2 cups Bob's Red Mill Blanched Almond Flour
  • 1/2 cup maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • dash of salt
  • 9 tablespoons aquafaba liquid reserved from can of chickpeas
  • 2 cup fresh cranberries rinsed and dried
Instructions
  1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
  2. Sift almond flour into a large bowl. Add baking soda, salt and mix.
  3. Add maple syrup and beat until combined.
  4. In a separate bowl beat aquafaba until stiff peaks form (this took me about 10 minutes).
  5. Gently fold the aquafaba into the almond flour mix.
  6. Add the cranberries and gently fold in.
  7. Place batter in a 9 inch springform pan lined with parchment paper.
  8. Bake for 35-45 minutes until cooked through and top is lightly browned.
Recipe Notes

Serving size: 1/8 of the almond cake Calories 281 % Daily Value* Total Fat 17.5g 27% Saturated Fat 0g 0% Cholesterol 0g 0% Sodium 160.8mg 7% Total Carbohydrate 25.4g 8% Dietary Fiber 4.8g 19% Sugars 15.2g Protein 8.8g 18% Vitamin A 0% Vitamin C 6% Calcium 5% Iron 3%

Nutrition Facts
Gluten Free Almond Cake with Cranberries {Vegan}
Amount Per Serving
Calories 272 Calories from Fat 153
% Daily Value*
Fat 17g26%
Saturated Fat 1g6%
Sodium 166mg7%
Potassium 93mg3%
Carbohydrates 24g8%
Fiber 4g17%
Sugar 14g16%
Protein 9g18%
Vitamin A 15IU0%
Vitamin C 3.3mg4%
Calcium 97mg10%
Iron 1.4mg8%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

I was selected for this opportunity as a member of CLEVER and the content and opinions expressed here are all my own.

After Post

Get Healthy Recipes Sent To Your Inbox

authorbio

How would you like to have a meal plan sent to you every Sunday to help you plan out the week and stay healthy?

And add me on social media!

« Vegan Pumpkin Pie Truffles {GF, High Protein}
Gluten Free Apple Crisp with Walnut Graham Cracker Topping {DF} »

Comments

  1. Janie says

    November 21, 2016 at 11:09 am

    That looks utterly delicious!
    I often forgo the vanilla in baked goods, and I honestly would never be able to tell whether a recipe contains it or not!
    Janie x

    Reply
    • Vicky says

      November 22, 2016 at 10:48 am

      I am starting to think I’m going to be forgoing it from now on too!

      Reply
  2. maria @closeothome says

    November 21, 2016 at 11:41 am

    I have never baked with Almond flour before. What a great way to add protein to you baked goods.

    Reply
    • Vicky says

      November 22, 2016 at 10:49 am

      It is a great way to sneak some additional protein into baked goods – I love it!

      Reply
  3. Just Jo says

    November 21, 2016 at 12:05 pm

    Oh this looks beautiful. I am constantly amazed at how versatile aquafaba is, such a cool discovery. Bob’s Red Mill is sinfully expensive in the UK but at least I can get ground almonds everywhere. I will definitely give this a go 😀

    Reply
    • Vicky says

      November 22, 2016 at 10:49 am

      YES aquafaba is seriously amazing! So excited about it! Let me know this turns out if you end up making it!

      Reply
  4. Tina Dawson | Love is in my Tummy says

    November 21, 2016 at 12:07 pm

    How have I not baked with Aquafaba yet! I absolutely love Bob’s Red mill Almond Flour – this cake must be just divine to have in the evenings with a hot cup of tea!

    Reply
    • Vicky says

      November 22, 2016 at 10:50 am

      You have got to try baking with aquafaba – I was seriously amazing watching it turn into what looked like beaten egg whites! Yes the cake is perfect with a cup of tea!

      Reply
  5. Claire says

    November 29, 2016 at 6:18 pm

    How many egg whites might I use as a substitute? Are the cranberries tart? Anxious to try this!

    Reply
    • Vicky says

      January 9, 2017 at 5:31 pm

      I think 3-4 egg whites would work perfectly! The fresh cranberries actually aren’t too tart and blend perfectly with the almond flour for a ever so slightly sweet cake with a hint of tartness.

      Reply
  6. David says

    February 9, 2017 at 12:10 pm

    This really looks good. Love cooking with Almond Flour, but never heard of aquafaba. I will have to give this a try! Just found your site and have already marked many recipes to try.

    Reply
    • Vicky says

      February 15, 2017 at 6:53 am

      Thanks! Hope you enjoy my recipe! This was my first time experimenting with aquafaba and I loved it!

      Reply
  7. Cari Alter says

    January 11, 2018 at 6:06 pm

    I can’t use Aquafaba because I’m on a low lectin diet. Can I use a flax egg instead?

    Reply
    • Vicky says

      January 12, 2018 at 10:57 am

      I think you could try to make this with the equivalent of 3 flax eggs, though you might want to add a bit less almond flour in that case since you will have less liquid to balance out the flour the liquid ratio. If you do end up making this with a flax egg please let me know how it turns out!

      Reply
  8. Rachel says

    February 26, 2018 at 3:15 pm

    5 stars
    Excellent! Can’t wait to make this.

    Reply
  9. Aniko says

    October 7, 2018 at 1:31 am

    5 stars
    I made it tonight it’s amazing! Thank you!!!!

    Reply
    • Vicky says

      October 16, 2018 at 4:36 pm

      So happy to hear that!! Thanks for sharing!

      Reply

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe Rating




Featured and Popular

Quick Mexican Tuna Salad & Avocado Bowl Recipe {GF, DF}

Thai Veggie Quinoa Bowls {Gluten-Free, Vegan}

Raw Vegan Collard Wraps Recipe

Hi, I’m Vicky!

VICKY

About Avocado Pesto

I love to create unique, healthy recipes for people who want to maintain a variety of diets, like Gluten Free, Dairy Free, Vegan, Vegetarian, etc. Read more about how I can help you plan your meals!

Check out these other delicious recipes from my blog!

Chilean sea bass FG_
Chickpea Flatbread
roasted potato wedges
Avocado Chickpea Salad with vegan pesto makes for the perfect lunch recipe that is ready in minutes. Super simple 5 ingredient recipe packed full of flavor and protein. Lunch or grill day appetizers don't get easier than this!
Roasted Cauliflower Soup with Garlic - Gluten Free and Vegan
This Caribbean Fish Curry recipe is a one pot meal ready in 30 minutes that is a creamy blend of coconut milk, tomatoes, curry spices and tender red snapper. Both Gluten Free and Dairy Free.
Vegan Quinoa Power Bowls with Roasted Veggies and Avocado Sauce Gluten-Free
Vegan-Creamy-Pumpkin-Pasta-with-Sage-Recipe
Quinoa Black Bean Pumpkin Soup Recipe
Sweet Potato and Chickpea Salad Recipe
Tofu burger recipe made with sweet potatoes is the perfect healthy summer vegan lunch. Soft, and tender on the inside while lightly crispy on the outside, and full of flavor. Gluten-Free too. |avocadopesto.com
Lemon Rice makes for the perfect healthy side dish. With a flair of Indian flavors this lemon rice is made with turmeric, ginger, chili, lemon and Indian spices. Gluten Free and Vegan | avocadopesto.com
Baked pork chops make for the easiest 4 ingredient dinner ever. A classic family recipe passed down from my grandmother and the only way I ever make pork chops. Gluten Free too. You only need pork chops, onions, mayo and sharp cheddar (regular or vegan, for a dairy free recipe).
  • Dairy Free
    • Dairy Free Breakfast
    • Dairy Free Lunch
    • Dairy Free Dinner
    • Dairy Free Dessert
  • Gluten Free
    • Gluten Free Breakfast
    • Gluten Free Lunch
    • Gluten Free Dinner
    • Gluten Free Dessert
  • Recipe Index
    • Recipe Search
  • Vegan
    • Vegan Breakfast
    • Vegan Lunch
    • Vegan Dinner
    • Vegan Dessert
  • Vegetarian
    • Vegetarian Breakfast
    • Vegetarian Lunch
    • Vegetarian Dinner
    • Vegetarian Dessert
  • About Me
    • About Me
    • Contact
    • Press
    • Work With Me
  • Shop
  • Privacy Policy
  • 30 mins or less

Copyright © 2023

555 shares
  • 8